Hydrate Structures

Hydrate structures are crystalline solids formed when gas molecules, like methane, become trapped within a network of water molecules. These water molecules arrange themselves into a cage-like pattern through hydrogen bonding, creating a stable structure that encloses the gas. Hydrates typically form under high pressure and low temperature conditions, often found in deep ocean sediments or permafrost regions. They are of interest for energy resources and carbon storage, as well as environmental impacts. Essentially, hydrates are like trapped gas particles nestled inside a solid ice-like lattice of water molecules.